all-wheel drive

Things are getting serious at Genesis Motors. When launching the upscale brand in 2015 with two sedans, the Hyundai Motor Group promised to populate its luxury marque with six models.

This year, Genesis released its third model, the compact G70 sedan, making its strongest case yet as a luxury manufacturer. Indeed, where the midsize G80 and full-size G90 sedans established toeholds in their respective segments, the G70 is going after the heart of the matter, in this case, models such as the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and the Audi A4, among others.

Yes, Genesis is delivering its sedans first, with two SUVs to follow. A sixth model, perhaps a hybrid sports car, will flesh out Genesis’ product line.

And if you think Genesis Motors will rest on its laurels come 2020, you have another thing coming. The Korean luxury brand aims to take on the world, and will likely do battle with Lexus, Jaguar, Acura, Cadillac, Infiniti, and other luxury brands moving forward.

2019 Genesis G70 Overview

The G70 may be the best example of Genesis’ bona fides, a sedan with a strong presence and the luxury and performance chops to back it up. It is Genesis’ riskiest model yet, as it invades territory long dominated by a few players. BMW and Mercedes-Benz have the strongest entries (and they’re also new for 2019), with competitors such as the Lexus IS, Cadillac ATS and the Jaguar XE offering a modest presence.

Genesis offers the 2019 G70 in five trims, with each one based on a particular engine and drivetrain. The base model comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This rear-wheel-drive model starts at $34,900. Add $995 for the destination fee.

The second model is the all-wheel-drive version of the base model. This one starts at $36,900. Yes, there is a six-speed manual gearbox available with the base rear-wheel-drive model only. Here, your cost is $37,900.

The fourth trim is powered by a 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This one retails for $43,750. If you prefer all-wheel drive, then your cost is $45,750.

Importantly, the 2019 Genesis G70 matches the starting price of the 2019 BMW 3 Series. The G70’s top-end pricing is lower than the BMW and its amenities list goes deeper. What it doesn’t offer to U.S. customers is diesel or hybrid variants. We think the latter will eventually become commonly found in Genesis’ future product plans.

A Matter of Style

You may have heard that the Genesis G70 is related to the Kia Stinger. This is true. The corporate cousins share a common platform, although the G70 is slightly smaller than the Kia. It also takes its own styling direction — the silhouettes of the two models are quite dissimilar.

Up front, the G70 has a strong fascia, amplified by a gaping grille covered in mesh. Sleek wing-like headlamps touch the top of the grille. Large dugouts for the lower intake, stress this model’s aggressive demeanor.

The G70’s profile features a long hood, a high beltline and a sloping roofline leading to a notched rear deck. Important design elements include boomerang accented side vents, which are common to sports cars, sport alloy wheels set within performance tires, red Brembo brakes and just enough body sculpting to keep things interesting.

From the rear, the fascia features an oversized trunk lip spoiler that serves as a bulge transecting the length of the trunk. Wraparound tail lamps, dual chrome exhaust tips, and a diffuser complete the look.

Yes, there are some differences between trims. My description applies to the top-trim model, which was my test vehicle and topped $52,000.

Inside, the G70 delivers an elegant, yet straightforward cabin. It isn’t cluttered with knobs and switches or overrun by complex lines or secreted compartments. Much like the BMW 3 Series, the layout features analog readouts, sizable round dials, and a minimalist persona.

The quilted leather seats are the eye candy of choice for the G70. The visual appeal is complemented by passenger comfort, with the front seats offering a proper amount of bolstering and support. The rear seat is comfortable too, but like the BMW, legroom comes at a premium. Unless the driver or front passenger elect to have their seats pulled forward, you’ll soon realize that the rear seat is best left for children.

Standard interior features include a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, imitation leather seats, power front seats with driver power lumbar support, climate control and full power accessories. Optional features include alloy pedals, Nappa leather seating surfaces with sport quilting, heated and ventilated front seats, and aluminum trim.

Technology and Safety

Some luxury manufacturers make obtaining technology expensive. That is if you want such add-ons as Apple CarPlay, expect to pay $300 or more for the service. Most mainstream manufacturers include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for no charge. The same can be said for Genesis.

The standard color display measures seven inches. You’ll also find a rearview camera with parking guidelines, Bluetooth connectivity, a six-speaker audio system with satellite radio and HD Radio, and three USB ports. Optional features include a 15-speaker Lexicon audio system and full navigation.

Driver-assist safety technologies build on any model’s core safety systems, including brake assist, a suite of airbags, and crash test scores. We don’t yet have test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), but we’re confident this Genesis will do fine.

All models come with forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, blind-spot collision warning with rear cross-traffic collision warning, smart (adaptive) cruise control with stop and go, driver attention warning, and high beam assist. This is a remarkable suite of advanced safety features and they’re included at no extra charge. Much of the competition is gradually adding features to the standard equipment list, but Genesis has the full package included.

On the Road With the 2019 Genesis G70

What flavor is your Genesis G70? My preferred model is the middle trim with the base engine and a manual transmission. I’m of the school where “rowing your own” is the preferred choice. When I’ve driven a BMW 3 Series with a manual gearbox, you couldn’t wipe the smile off my face.

Alas, Genesis sent the top-trim model my way. But I have no complaints with that decision whatsoever — it just means I’m not able to make comments about rev shifting and clutch uptake. In any case, BMW and Mercedes-Benz no longer offer manuals with their compact sedans, a decision that disappoints some enthusiasts to no end. Paddle shifters, anyone?

If you opt for the base G70 engine, you’ll have 252 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque at the ready. These are good numbers, although if you want stronger performance to go with adroit maneuvering and a firm ride, an engine upgrade is in order.

That’s exactly what was under the hood of my test model — a twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V6 engine with 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. It delivers an outstanding 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds or two full seconds faster than the standard engine.

One of the first things I noticed about the G70 is its fairly hushed, but still aggressive exhaust note on ignition. The low hum suggests something strong is at play, a fact confirmed by engaging the gas pedal. Copious amounts of power is at the ready and quickly tapped with no hesitation felt.

While power is certainly a G70 attribute, where this model’s strength lies is in its handling. Take the Genesis on a twisty road and it remains poised and stays planted on the sharpest turns. Indeed, the combination of Michelin sport tires and excellent suspension tuning ensure success in all your driving endeavors.

The G70 reminds me of the 3 Series in a very important way — it makes most any driver look skilled when entering and leaving corners or while hanging with the twisties. By the way, rear-wheel-drive models get a limited-slip differential.

Is there any downside to the G70? Yes. And that would be its harsh-at-times ride. There is no escaping the fact that when the Sport drive mode is chosen, the ride loses whatever softness is left, while also supplying a real connection with the road. That connection includes magnifying bumps and other road insults, which means you’ll want to choose smooth pavement wherever it can be found.

Parting Thoughts: 2019 Genesis G70

Mission Accomplished. Or at least, Mission Compact Luxury Sedan.

Genesis Motors rounds out its sedan line in an important way, delivering a model that should attract entry-level luxury model shoppers. Yes, Genesis absolutely needs to transition to SUVs, but you have to admire the brand for concentrating on its core competencies before launching an SUV.

Aiding the G70’s cause are robust services that go with it, including complimentary scheduled maintenance for the first three years or 36,000 miles with corresponding valet service. That service includes picking up and delivering the G70 for scheduled maintenance and supplying a courtesy replacement vehicle. You’ll also find three years of connected car services, satellite radio along with regular multimedia and navigation updates.

The 2019 Subaru Ascent fills a hole in this automaker’s product line, by supplying a sizable three-row crossover SUV. It represents Subaru’s largest model yet, a vehicle designed to keep growing families in the brand fold.

Although the Ascent is not Subaru’s first three-row model — that honor belongs to the Tribeca, last built in 2014 — it is the first one to take advantage of the brand’s new modular architecture. Thus, the Ascent has an additional five inches between the wheels, is two inches wider and comes in about four inches taller than the Tribeca.

These specifications mean the 2019 Ascent is better able to accommodate seven passengers in comfort than the Tribeca. Further, with three rows of bench seats, the Ascent offers room for eight as do the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Buick Enclave and the Toyota Highlander.

But one of the most significant differences between the 2019 Ascent and its competitors is that the Subaru is the only one with standard all-wheel drive. Each of its competitors has standard front-wheel drive with available all-wheel drive.

2019 Subaru Ascent Trims

The Base and Touring models do not offer package upgrades. The Premium model offers four package choices, including a pair of Convenience ($1,460) and Sporty Packages ($4,260) based on the number of seats chosen (seven or eight).

The Convenience Package includes a power rear liftgate, keyless entry, an automatic dimming rearview mirror, and reverse automatic braking. The Sporty Package builds on the Convenience Package, adding 20-inch wheels, a panoramic moonroof, an 8-inch navigation system, and a cargo area cover.

As for the Limited model, it offers a pair of Technology Packages ($2,950), once again based on 7- or 8-passenger seating. This package includes a panoramic moonroof, navigation, a cargo area cover, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

The Ascent’s center console is clean and uncluttered.

A Matter of Style

We’ve already made the point that the 2019 Ascent is the largest Subaru model ever. Beyond that, the Ascent shares some of the styling elements of other Subaru models, although its diamond-shaped grille is larger and the headlamps and lower intake are also unique to this model.

Standard exterior features include halogen headlights, folding side mirrors, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, and roof rails. Available equipment includes LED steering responsive headlights, LED fog lights, heated side mirrors, a power moonroof, and a power liftgate.

Inside, the cabin is clean, well ordered and roomy. If you don’t need eight seats, I strongly encourage the seven-seat layout. The middle-row captains’ chairs are very comfortable. They slide and tilt forward for ease of access to the third row. They also allow for more legroom (especially for the middle seated passenger).

The Ascent was absolutely designed with families in mind. You’ll find 19 drink holders, although they can be filled with other items. Look around and you’ll find places to stash your phones and door cutouts for resting elbows. The front seats are comfortable, although if they were a bit wider they’d please the largest drivers amongst us.

Standard interior features include full power accessories, cloth seats, and three-zone climate control.

A 2019 Ascent with its available automatic adjusting headlamps (as featured on my test Limited model) earns a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Subaru typically garners the highest scores, underscoring its stellar reputation for all things safety.

The standard audio package includes a 6.5-inch screen. You’ll also find a six-speaker audio system with a CD player, HD Radio, and satellite radio. Other features include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone compatibility, USB ports, auxiliary audio input, navigation, Bluetooth, and a host of cloud-based applications. Options include an 8-inch color display, additional USB ports, and the Harman Kardon audio system.

On the Road With the 2019 Subaru Ascent

When I took delivery of the 2019 Ascent and drove it for the first time, I forgot that this model doesn’t have the six-cylinder engine used in some Subaru models.

Instead, the Ascent is powered by an all-new turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This is a BOXER engine, which means the cylinders are horizontally opposed, a layout prized by Subaru and Porsche alike.

Subaru’s all-new Boxer engine powers the Ascent.

What’s noteworthy here is that the engine bangs out 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque and is paired with a continuously variable transmission.

Step-off acceleration imbues confidence and when full power is needed, the turbo spools quickly. To my surprise, turbo lag was absent and that’s no small feat. Usually, when pressing the gas pedal with impunity, the engine will hesitate slightly as the turbo activates. Happily, this was not the case with this Subaru, which only heightened this model’s driving experience.

Another plus was the CVT. It behaved more like an automatic transmission as the built-in “steps” kept it from “stretching” under hard acceleration. You can also move the transmission shifter into sport mode and activate the paddle shifters. Here, the transmission mimics eight forward shift points.

As for off-roading, the Ascent can handle light-duty work with ease. The standard X-mode variable transfer clutch lock control adjusts the all-wheel-drive mapping as well as throttle control and activates hill descent control. These features are useful for gravelly roads, but you won’t want to tackle the rocky terrain.

As for fuel economy, the first two trims make an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The two top trims lose 1 mpg. Another important feature is this model’s 5,000-pound towing capacity, the most we’ve seen from Subaru. That puts Subaru in good company, matching the top capacity of models like the Ford Explorer and ahead of the GMC Acadia (4,000 pounds) and the Mazda CX-9 (3,500 pounds).

Parting Thoughts: 2019 Subaru Ascent

The Subaru Ascent does what it needs to do as it goes up against the top models in its class. Now, Subaru shoppers don’t have to leave the brand as their seating and storage needs increase. Indeed, not only does this model seat up to eight, but storage capacity maxes out at 86.5 cubic feet with the second- and third-row seats folded.

That Subaru supplies its EyeSight technology across the model line means customers don’t have to upgrade and pay more to get what they want. The same can be said for all-wheel drive. That said, we think the Premium model with the available Sporty Package offers a sensible choice for many shoppers. With a price point just above $40,000, it also matches well with the competition.

Roof rack cross rails and 20-inch tires are available.

2019 Subaru Ascent

Sticker price from $32,970 (including a $975 destination charge)

Seats seven or eight

Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gas

260 horsepower @ 6,000 RPM

277 foot-pounds of torque @ 2,000 to 4,800 RPM

Continuously variable automatic transmission

Wheelbase: 113.8 inches

Length: 196.8 inches

Width: 76.0 inches

Height: 71.6 inches

Passenger volume: 153.5 cubic feet

Storage volume: 17.8/47.5/86.5 cubic feet

Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds

EPA: 21/27 (Base, Premium) 20/26 (others) mpg city/highway (est.)

Regular gasoline

Fuel tank: 19.3 gallons

Curb weight: From 4,430 to 4,603 pounds

IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick+

Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles

Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles

Corrosion warranty: 5 years/Unlimited

Vehicle assembly: Lafayette, Indiana

With X-mode activated, the Subaru Ascent is better prepared to handle gravel roads.